Acupuncture for Pre/Post Embryo Transfer
Gently Supporting Your IVF Journey at the Crucial Implantation Window
How Acupuncture May Support Embryo Transfer Success
The hours surrounding embryo transfer represent one of the most delicate moments in your fertility journey. Research indicates that acupuncture administered around this critical window may enhance clinical pregnancy rates, with one analysis finding a 31% improvement compared to no adjunctive treatment.
Rather than replacing your medical protocol, acupuncture works alongside your fertility team's care. Studies suggest it may improve uterine blood flow, increase endometrial receptivity, and affect neuroendocrine activities during embryo implantation. Perhaps most importantly for many patients, acupuncture has been shown to significantly reduce anxiety levels before embryo transfer, helping you arrive at this pivotal moment feeling calmer and more grounded.
The evidence base continues to grow. While no treatment can guarantee success, research published in 2020 found that three strategically timed acupuncture sessions, one week before transfer, as soon as possible before and as soon as possible after transfer, significantly improved pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing IVF.
How Acupuncture Can Help
Experience the Benefits:
Enhances Uterine Blood Flow
Acupuncture may reduce blood flow impedance in the uterine arteries, potentially improving the growth and thickness of the endometrium. Think of it as creating a more nutrient-rich environment for implantation. Studies using Doppler ultrasound have documented this effect, showing measurable changes in uterine artery blood flow following acupuncture treatment.
Calms the Nervous System and Reduces Stress
IVF is demanding, physically, emotionally, and financially. Research consistently demonstrates that acupuncture significantly lowers anxiety levels before and after transfer. By activating the parasympathetic nervous system, acupuncture may help quiet uterine contractions, potentially creating a more stable environment for the embryo.
Supports Hormonal Balance and Endometrial Receptivity
Acupuncture may influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, helping to regulate reproductive hormones. It's been shown to affect endometrial pinopodes and molecular markers of receptivity, factors critical to successful implantation during the narrow "window of implantation."
Complements Your Medical Protocol
This isn't an either/or decision. Acupuncture works best in conjunction with, not instead of, conventional fertility medicine. We ensure treatments align perfectly with your IVF timeline, enhancing, not interfering with, your medical care.
Your Treatment Plan
Timing matters considerably when it comes to embryo transfer support. Evidence suggests women who receive more acupuncture sessions, around 13 to 15 throughout their IVF cycle, are twice as likely to have a baby compared to IVF alone, and 60% more likely compared to women who only had two treatments on transfer day. That means without acupuncture, your success rate drops by half.
Typical programme structure:
Preparation phase: Weekly treatments in the 2–4 weeks leading up to transfer to optimise the uterine environment
Transfer day: Treatment 3 to 4 hours before embryo transfer to promote relaxation and optimal blood flow
Post-transfer: Treatment after transfer and potentially in the days following to support implantation
Early pregnancy support: Gentle treatments in the first weeks if pregnancy is confirmed
We work flexibly around your schedule. If you're travelling from outside Dublin for your transfer, we'll coordinate timing carefully so you're not rushing.
Treatment techniques may include:
Traditional body acupuncture targeting points that support reproductive function
Auricular (ear) acupuncture with tiny retention needles or acupressure seeds, you can use at home between visits
Breathing exercises drawn from ancient practices to support nervous system regulation
Optional enhancements, such as red light therapy for warmth and circulation, or a herbal consultation, may be recommended based on your individual needs.
Your First Visit
Your initial appointment lasts 45–60 minutes and includes your first treatment. We'll take time to understand your fertility history, your current IVF protocol, and possible dates for embryo transfer. Using Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnostic methods, including pulse and tongue assessment, we'll identify your unique pattern and design a treatment plan that works with your cycle timing.
You'll receive your first acupuncture treatment during this session, along with clear guidance about what to expect in the days ahead. Many people describe feeling deeply relaxed, sometimes even pleasantly drowsy, during treatment. That's precisely what we're after.
What to Expect
Between Sessions
You won't leave empty-handed. We'll provide simple self-care techniques to use at home: acupressure points for moments of anxiety, breathing exercises to support continued progress, and gentle lifestyle guidance based on TCM principles.
Some people notice subtle shifts after their first treatment, perhaps sleeping more soundly or feeling calmer around meal choices. Others experience more gradual changes. We'll check in at each session to track your response and adjust your plan accordingly.
Is Embryo Transfer Acupuncture Right for You?
Pain Acupuncture Works Well if You Experience:
High anxiety or stress related to your IVF cycle or transfer
Previous failed transfers despite good-quality embryos
Thin endometrial lining or concerns about uterine receptivity
A desire for a more holistic, integrative approach to your fertility care
Physical tension or difficulty relaxing during the IVF process
Important to Understand
Acupuncture is most effective when combined with sensible nutrition and lifestyle habits that suit your circumstances. We're not asking you to overhaul your entire life; sustainable changes that reduce stress and support your body work best.
The evidence, while growing, remains mixed across different studies. Success with IVF is multifactorial, and no single intervention guarantees results. What we can say is that acupuncture appears to be beneficial in increasing clinical pregnancy rates when used as part of a comprehensive approach, and it carries virtually no adverse effects when performed by a qualified practitioner.
Safety Considerations
Acupuncture is not suitable if you have certain bleeding disorders or active skin infections in the treatment areas. We'll discuss your full medical history during your initial appointment to ensure treatment is appropriate for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Acupuncture Safe During IVF?
Absolutely, when performed by a properly qualified practitioner. Research consistently shows acupuncture does not increase the risk of miscarriage. All needles used at AcuFusion are single-use and sterile. We're registered with the AFPA and hold full professional indemnity insurance.
How Close to Transfer Should I Have Acupuncture?
Studies showing benefit have used treatments before embryo transfer, with some protocols including a session soon after as well. However, women who began treatment earlier in their cycle and continued through transfer saw even better outcomes.
Ideally, we'd see you 2–4 weeks before your scheduled transfer, but we can work with shorter timelines if needed. On the day, it needs to be practical. Acupuncture as soon as possible before and after your transfer is perfectly fine. We have two treatment rooms and can fit you in between 8-8 Mon-Fri. Women doing IVF transfers are prioritised.
Does Acupuncture Really Improve Implantation Rates?
The research is encouraging but not definitive. A 2025 systematic review analysing multiple studies found acupuncture was associated with improved clinical pregnancy rates, though results varied based on treatment protocols and timing. What's clear is that acupuncture significantly reduces stress and anxiety, which alone may benefit outcomes by helping you stay in treatment rather than dropping out due to emotional duress.
Individual results vary considerably. Your age, embryo quality, underlying diagnosis, and overall health all influence success more than any single intervention.
Ready to Give Your Transfer the Best Support?
Book Your Appointment Today
You've invested so much time, hope, and resources into reaching this point. Acupuncture offers a gentle, evidence-informed way to support your body through the critical implantation window.
Call us at 01 5240874 to schedule your appointment.
Why Trust Us?
William J.J. O'Donnell, our clinic founder and licensed acupuncturist, has completed advanced training with Giovanni Maciocia and Emma Cannon, leading authorities in fertility acupuncture. With over 10 years of clinical experience and specialised training in reproductive health, he has supported over 500 women during their IVF programs.
Expertise
Our clinic offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere where you can discuss your needs openly.
Professional Environment
Insurance Accepted
Treatments are recognised by major health insurers, making it easier for you to get the support you need.
Get started with AcuFusion, today
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